Ferragosto and Patronal Feast of San Rocco

Ferragosto and the Feast of San Rocco in Cisterna di Latina

In the heart of summer, the town of Cisterna di Latina, located in the province of Latina and the Pontine Lazio region, celebrates its most cherished event: the Patronal Feast of San Rocco, which coincides with the Ferragosto festivities. For two days, from August 15th to 16th, the town center comes alive with faith, music, and tradition, drawing thousands of visitors from across the province.

San Rocco, patron saint of the city

San Rocco, a 14th-century French pilgrim who dedicated his life to caring for plague victims, has been venerated as the protector of Cisterna for three centuries: in 2025, the city celebrated the 300th anniversary of his proclamation as patron saint. The bond with the Saint is renewed each year through religious rites organized by the parish community and the Confraternity of San Rocco.

Religious rites

The spiritual core of the festival is marked by solemn mass and the traditional procession through the streets of the center, accompanying the patron's statue followed by civil and religious authorities and the town band. The church of Santa Maria Assunta serves as the hub for liturgical celebrations.

Concerts in Piazza XIX Marzo

The beating heart of the festivities is Piazza XIX Marzo, which hosts major evening concerts with free admission. Over the years, the Cisterna stage has welcomed prominent artists from the Italian scene: in the 2025 edition, for example, the legendary Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) presented its dual tribute to progressive rock and Fabrizio De André, while the eve was marked by the energy of a dance show. Music for every taste, from progressive to pop, set within a vibrant popular celebration.

A free, popular festival

The Cisterna Ferragosto is more than just music: the streets and squares of the center fill with stalls, lights, and booths, creating a convivial atmosphere that brings together young and old. Almost all events are free to attend, reflecting the popular and inclusive spirit of the festival, promoted by the Municipality of Cisterna di Latina in collaboration with local associations.

An event for the Pontine territory

Between spirituality and entertainment, the Feast of San Rocco is one of the defining events of summer in southern Lazio. For the people of Cisterna, it is an opportunity to gather around their patron saint; for visitors, it is an authentic way to discover the traditions of this city in the Pontine plain, just a few kilometers from Latina and at the foot of the Lepini Mountains.